Kia Sorento XM Owner's Manual.

Owner Maintenance

~3min read

The following lists show vehicle checks and inspections that must be performed by the owner or an authorized Kia dealer at the indicated intervals to ensure safe and reliable operation of your vehicle.

Any abnormal conditions should be reported to your dealer as soon as possible.

These owner maintenance checks are generally not covered by the warranty, and you may be charged for labor, parts, and lubricants used.

Owner Maintenance Schedule

When you stop for fuel:

  • Check the engine oil level.
  • Check the coolant level in the coolant reservoir.
  • Check the windshield washer fluid level.
  • Look for low or under-inflated tires.

WARNING

Be careful when checking the engine coolant level on a hot engine. Scalding hot coolant and steam may be released under pressure. This may cause burns or other serious injury.

While operating the vehicle:

  • Pay attention to any change in exhaust sound or any smell of exhaust gas in the vehicle.
  • Check the steering wheel for vibration. Pay attention to any increase in steering effort, looseness of the steering wheel or change in its straight-ahead position.
  • Note if the vehicle constantly turns slightly or "pulls" to one side when driving on a smooth, level road.
  • When stopping, listen for and check for unusual noises, pulling to one side, increased brake pedal travel, or a hard brake pedal.
  • If slipping or changes in transmission operation occur, check the transmission fluid level.
  • Check the automatic transmission P (Park) position function.
  • Check the parking brake.
  • Check for fluid leaks under the vehicle (water dripping from the air conditioning system during or after use is normal).

At least monthly:

  • Check the engine coolant level in the coolant reservoir.
  • Check the operation of all exterior lights, including brake lights, turn signals and hazard warning lights.
  • Check the tire pressure of all tires, including the spare tire.

At least twice a year (i.e., every spring and fall):

  • Check the radiator, heater and air conditioning hoses for leaks or damage.
  • Check the operation of the windshield washer and wipers. Clean the wiper blades with a clean cloth moistened with washer fluid.
  • Check the headlight aim.
  • Check the muffler, exhaust pipes, shields and clamps.
  • Check the seat belts for wear and proper function.
  • Check the tires for wear and the wheel nuts for looseness.

At least once a year:

  • Clean the body and door drain holes.
  • Lubricate the door hinges and checkers, and the hood hinges.
  • Lubricate the door and hood latches and locks.
  • Lubricate the door rubber weatherstrips.
  • Inspect the air conditioning system.
  • Inspect and lubricate the automatic transmission linkage and controls.
  • Clean the battery and battery terminals.
  • Check the brake fluid level.

Scheduled Maintenance

Follow the normal maintenance schedule if the vehicle is normally operated under none of the following conditions. If any of the following conditions apply, follow the "Severe Duty Maintenance" schedule.

  • Frequent short trip driving.
  • Driving in dusty conditions or on sandy areas.
  • Frequent heavy braking.
  • Driving in areas where salt or other corrosive materials are used.
  • Driving on rough or muddy roads.
  • Driving in mountainous areas.
  • Extended periods of idling or low-speed operation.
  • Driving for extended periods in low temperatures and/or very high humidity climates.
  • More than 50 % of driving in dense city traffic in hot weather above 90°F (32°C).

If your vehicle is operated under the conditions listed above, you should check, replace, or refill items more often than indicated in the following normal maintenance schedule. After 120 months or 150,000 miles, continue to follow the prescribed maintenance intervals.

Test yourself

A quick Kia Sorento Owner's Manual quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.